The Indian team for the T20 World Cup is unlikely to feature too many surprises, except for the potential recall of Rishabh Pant, a proven match-winner with significant experience across formats. Pant, who had been sidelined due to a serious injury over 16 months ago, has impressed with his recent performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). His form has put him ahead in the race for a spot in the Indian team for the World Cup, with selectors and the team management reportedly convinced of his readiness for international action.
Pant’s return to form and fitness has been commendable, especially considering his injury layoff and subsequent surgery. His performances have garnered praise from former players like Michael Clarke, who expressed a desire to see Pant back in the Indian colors. Sourav Ganguly, former India captain and BCCI president, also highlighted Pant’s excellent form and fitness, indicating that he could be a strong contender for the World Cup squad.
Rishab is in for World cup Selection
The competition for the wicketkeeper-batsman position is stiff, with players like Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and Jitesh Sharma vying for the spot. However, Pant’s recent form and experience could give him the edge. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli’s inclusion in the squad seems almost certain, given his outstanding performances in the IPL so far. The selectors also face dilemmas regarding the inclusion of players like Shubman Gill, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Mayank Yadav, who have shown promise but require careful consideration before a final decision is made. The team selection is expected to be finalized in the first week of May, ahead of the T20 World Cup.
The selectors are also deliberating over the inclusion of Shubman Gill, who faces competition for the opening slot with Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to lead the batting order. Yuzvendra Chahal’s impressive performance in the IPL adds to the selection dilemma, especially with Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel also in contention. Additionally, the emergence of Mayank Yadav as a pace bowling sensation has caught the attention of the selectors, although his current injury status raises questions about his readiness for international cricket. The team management is closely monitoring the players’ form, fitness, and consistency before making the final decision on the squad composition for the T20 World Cup.